That's Rufus: A Memoir of Tar Heel Politics, Watergate and Public Life

Rufus Edmisten was a farm boy from North Carolina who became Deputy Chief Counsel for the Senate Watergate Committee, served as Attorney General and Secretary of State, and retired to practice law and participate in charitable activities. His memoir recalls the cultural contrasts of American life in the 1970s and 1980s and affirms that the business of government is to enable us to live together peacefully.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 220 pages
Publication date: 30 July 2019
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

Rufus Edmisten, a farm boy hailing from the picturesque mountains of North Carolina, found himself thrust into the halls of power in Washington, D.C., during the tumultuous Vietnam War era. Young men were burning their draft cards, and pro-cannabis factions were organizing smoke-ins in the capital, defying the established norms. However, Edmisten's journey was far from conventional. A graduate of the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, he pursued his legal education at George Washington University, ultimately earning a law degree. His career took an intriguing turn when he secured a position as counsel to U.S. Senator Samuel J. Ervin, Jr., a prominent figure in the political landscape. This pivotal role led to Edmisten's appointment as the Deputy Chief Counsel for the Senate Watergate Committee, a position that placed him at the forefront of one of the most scandalous chapters in American history. In a remarkable twist, he personally served Richard Nixon, the then-President of the United States, with the first-ever subpoena of a sitting president by Congress.

Returning to his home state of North Carolina, Edmisten embarked on a distinguished career as the Attorney General and Secretary of State. His public service was marked by integrity, dedication, and a commitment to upholding the principles of democracy. After retiring from public life, Edmisten pursued his passion for law and philanthropy. In his memoir, he shares captivating anecdotes and reflections on the cultural contrasts of American life in the 1970s and 1980s. With humor and candor, he affirms that the business of government is to enable us to live together peacefully, fostering a sense of unity and common purpose.

Rufus Edmisten's life is a testament to the resilience and versatility of the American spirit. His journey from a humble upbringing to the halls of power in Washington, D.C., and his subsequent contributions to public service showcase the power of education, determination, and a commitment to serving others. His memoir serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of governance, the rule

Dimension: 254 x 178 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476677972